Could a tongue swab replace sputum tests for TB?

NCT ID NCT05941052

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: University of California, San Francisco Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

Every year, millions of people with tuberculosis (TB) go undiagnosed. This study tests new, faster diagnostic tools that use a simple tongue swab instead of the usual sputum sample. Researchers will enroll 1,350 adults with cough or TB risk factors to see how accurate these point-of-care tests are compared to standard lab cultures.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: tongue swab-based molecular assays
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to quick, easy, and affordable TB tests that can be used at clinics or community sites, helping diagnose more people early.
What could go wrong: This is a diagnostic accuracy study, not a treatment trial. The tests may not be sensitive or specific enough to replace current methods, and results may vary across different populations.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

tuberculosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TUBERCULOSIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia
RECRUITING

Lusaka, Zambia
De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute
RECRUITING

Dasmariñas, Philippines
Zankli Research Center, Bingham University
RECRUITING

Abuja, Nigeria

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